Junior Lexy Jordan prepares to serve the ball at a league match against McLoughlin Sept. 28. (The Enterprise/Yadira Lopez)
ONTARIO – Ontario’s first league win of the season was a three-set sweep against the McLoughlin Pioneers Saturday, Sept. 28.
With scores of 25-19, 28-26 and 25-23, the Tigers treated fans to a nail-biting second and third set to cap off homecoming week.
“They wanted it, they did,” said coach Jessica Rodriguez.
“When we dug a hole, we fought back,” she said. “When it was tied, they were confident that they could bounce back.”
Junior Lexy Jordan, No. 8, led with 10 kills. Senior Nora Williams, No. 11, had eight kills and 21 assists, while junior Corinne Maag, No. 10, made six kills.
Junior Emma Navarrete, No. 5, made 14 digs.
[ KEEP YOUR LOCAL NEWS STRONG – SUBSCRIBE ]
“We did really good even though we lost our setter and our libero to injuries,” said junior Rylynnn Grimm, No. 9.
Rodriguez said losing players forced the team to switch up the lineup.
“They’ve been willing to step into new positions,” said the coach.
As the Tigers fought to clinch the win, trading points back and forth with McLoughlin, from the bleachers the home section urged the team to “sign out” and finish the match.
Some fans looked away as the Pioneers made 23 points and threatened to take the match to a fourth set. A missed serve from the Pioneers granted the Tigers the winning point.
“It’s a great end to a long week,” Rodriguez said.
The Tigers celebrate after winning a point. (The Enterprise/Yadira Lopez)
Junior Rylynnn Grimm jumps to block the ball. (The Enterprise/Yadira Lopez)
Senior Nora Williams goes in for the ball. (The Enterprise/Yadira Lopez)
Reporter Yadira Lopez: [email protected], 541-473-3377.
For the latest news, follow the Enterprise on Facebook and Twitter.
SUBSCRIBE TO HELP PRODUCE VITAL REPORTING — For $5 a month, you get breaking news alerts, emailed newsletters and around-the-clock access to our stories. We depend on subscribers to pay for in-depth, accurate news produced by a professional and highly trained staff. Help us grow and get better with your subscription. Sign up HERE.